Fed Now Has a ‘Dueling Mandate,’ KPMG’s Swonk Says

The landscape of wealth in America is shifting as more millionaires find themselves unable to access their assets. In a recent piece by Bloomberg Opinion columnist Allison Schrager, the implications of this trend are explored, highlighting the challenges faced by these individuals and the broader economic impact. Understanding this change is crucial as it affects not only the millionaires themselves but also the economy at large.

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol has announced that the company's 'Back to Starbucks' turnaround plan is successfully boosting sales and enhancing customer service. With a 1% increase in sales at established locations last quarter, Niccol highlighted key strategies such as restaurant renovations, the introduction of protein options in drinks, and workforce expansion. Additionally, the company is focusing on growth in China, which is crucial for its global strategy. This positive momentum not only reflects Starbucks' resilience but also its commitment to adapting to customer preferences.

ServiceNow has exceeded expectations and raised its outlook, thanks to automation that is reducing costs and improving profit margins. CEO Bill McDermott discussed with Caroline Hyde on Bloomberg how artificial intelligence is transforming the company's growth narrative. This is significant as it highlights the increasing role of AI in enhancing business efficiency and profitability.

Bloomberg Surveillance, hosted by Jonathan Ferro, Lisa Abramowicz, and Annmarie Hordern, provides invaluable insights from key leaders and decision-makers in finance and politics. This program is essential for investors and executives looking to navigate the complexities of the trading day, making it a must-watch for anyone involved in the financial markets.

In a surprising turn of events, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has left markets reeling by signaling a pause on interest rate cuts after the recent Federal Open Market Committee meeting. While the Fed did cut rates as expected, the unexpected doubts about future cuts have led to a reset in market expectations. This matters because it could impact borrowing costs and economic growth, leaving investors and consumers uncertain about the financial landscape ahead.

Saudi Arabia's Economy Minister Faisal Alibrahim recently shared optimistic projections for the Kingdom's GDP growth, expecting an increase of 4.8–5.1% in 2025 and 6.5% in 2026. This marks a significant shift as non-oil activities now account for 56% of the real GDP, surpassing traditional oil and government sectors for the first time. Alibrahim highlighted the importance of Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy by promoting private sector innovation and technological advancements, especially in AI. This transition is crucial for reducing the Kingdom's reliance on oil and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Meta is reportedly looking to raise at least $25 billion through a bond sale, according to Bloomberg. This move is significant as it reflects the company's strategy to bolster its financial position amid ongoing market challenges. By tapping into the bond market, Meta aims to secure funds that could be used for various initiatives, including investments in technology and potential acquisitions.

The Federal Reserve's recent decision to cut interest rates has sparked discussions about its inflation target, which is still set at 2%. Bloomberg Opinion columnist Clive Crook highlights the apparent contradiction in the Fed's actions, raising questions about its commitment to this target. This matters because the Fed's policies directly impact the economy, influencing everything from consumer spending to investment decisions.

The Eurozone economy is showing signs of recovery, with GDP growth rising to 0.2% in the third quarter, up from 0.1% in the previous quarter. This improvement is significant as it indicates the 20-nation bloc is adapting to the challenges posed by higher U.S. tariffs. A stronger economy can lead to increased consumer confidence and investment, which is crucial for long-term stability and growth.

Vulcan Materials has reported a strong earnings performance for Q3 2025, significantly beating expectations with its earnings per share (EPS). This positive result highlights the company's robust operational efficiency and market demand for its products, which is crucial for investors and stakeholders. The strong EPS not only reflects the company's financial health but also positions it favorably for future growth, making it an important update for those following the construction materials sector.

Valaris has reported impressive contract wins during its Q3 2025 earnings call, showcasing the company's strong position in the market. This is significant as it reflects Valaris's ability to secure new business in a competitive environment, which could lead to increased revenue and growth opportunities in the future.

PSI has reported a notable revenue growth in the third quarter, despite facing some one-time expenses. This growth is significant as it reflects the company's resilience and ability to adapt to financial challenges, which is encouraging for investors and stakeholders. It shows that PSI is on a positive trajectory, potentially leading to more robust performance in the future.

Delek US Energy's stock has reached a remarkable 52-week high of $39.29, reflecting strong investor confidence and positive market trends. This milestone is significant as it indicates the company's robust performance and potential for future growth, making it an attractive option for investors looking to capitalize on energy sector opportunities.

Hanover Insurance has reported its Q3 2025 earnings, surpassing EPS forecasts, which is a positive sign for investors and stakeholders. This performance indicates the company's strong financial health and effective management strategies, making it a noteworthy player in the insurance sector. Such results can boost investor confidence and potentially lead to increased stock value.